Prepping Your Horse for a Photoshoot
Getting your horse ready for a photo session is kind of like prepping for a horse show, but way less stressful because you don’t have to memorize any dressage tests. Here are a few extra tips to go along with the usual bath and grooming routine:
- A tired horse is a well-behaved horse. I recommend a good ride or lunge the day of the session.
- If you’ve got any special props or spots planned for the shoot, work with your horse to desensitize them beforehand. Don’t assume they’ll be as cool as a cucumber; they’re likely to pick up on any nerves from you during the session.
- Take your time getting your horse cleaned up. The better they look, the better your photos will turn out. You’ll thank yourself later for those finishing touches.
- If you’re thinking of clipping your horse, do it at least two weeks before the session to let any lines fade.
- Decide if you want your horse looking show-ready with all the braids and a show bridle, or if you prefer a more natural vibe with just a clean halter.
- Focus on cleaning up your horse’s head area since that’s what most shots will focus on. Get rid of any gunk around the eyes, nose, muzzle and ears.
- Don’t forget to clean out those hooves prior to enter the session location if you’re doing equine studio portraits. Add a little hoof polish to really make them pop, just go easy to avoid leaving marks on the floor.
- If we’re just photographing your horse, dressing in all black long sleeves will help with editing.
- Show sheen and fly spray can be lifesavers for photos, but watch out for leaving wet spots on your horse’s coat.
- Use whatever tack you like, but make sure it’s spick and span, including the bit. I always bring a clean leather halter and lead to sessions as well as a thin rope halter for those “naked” shots.
